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At YEIDEP News (yeidepnews.org.ng), our mission is to provide the latest and most important information to Nigerians in the simplest way possible. This program was started by the Nigerian government to help young people. It aims to create jobs, reduce poverty, and stop youth from joining radical groups by providing them good opportunities.

The program helps youth by providing training and support in useful sectors like farming, technology, and renewable energy. Through this, young people can get new skills and start their own businesses. Some of the helpful activities include the Youth Farmers’ Cooperative Scheme and Tech4Jobs. In these programs, young people can learn farming or technology skills and get financial help to start their own businesses.

The program also gives small loans and funds to youths who want to start their own businesses. This helps them become independent and successful. It especially helps youth to get involved in agriculture, technology, and other important industries.

By giving these opportunities, the program helps Nigerian youth have better lives. It supports young people to earn money, stay away from crime, and help build a strong economy for Nigeria. The program also makes the country safer and more stable by involving youth in positive activities.

At YEIDEP News, we keep you informed about all the latest updates and developments, ensuring you stay connected to how these initiatives are benefiting Nigerian youth and driving national progress.

Official Portal: https://yeidep.org/

Latest News

As of March 2025, YEIDEP is regarded as a flagship youth program of the Nigerian government, carrying high hopes that it will drive both economic revival and enhance security through youth development. Its recent rebranding and the strong statements from officials underscore the political will behind it. “Nigeria’s economic wellbeing, national security, and social stability” have been rhetorically tied to success​, so there is considerable pressure to deliver results. The coming months and years will reveal how effectively this ambitious programme can translate its plans into reality.

FG Renames NIYEEDEP to YEIDEP

The Nigerian Federal Government has changed the name of the Nigerian Youth Economic Engagement and De-Radicalization Programme (NIYEEDEP) to the Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP).

This name change was announced in a press release on Thursday, March 6, 2025, after a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Federal Government and Nigerian Civil Society and Global Development Partners on Wednesday, February 5, 2025.

The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, represented the Federal Government, while Comrade Kennedy Iyere, the founding President of Youths Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI), represented the Nigerian Civil Society and Global Development Partners.

Key Highlights of the Announcement

• Date of Name Change Announcement: Thursday, March 6, 2025
• MoU Signing Date: February 5, 2025
• Primary Representatives:
  • Comrade Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development, represented the Nigerian government.
  • Comrade Kennedy Iyere, founding President of Youths Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI), represented Nigerian Civil Society and Global Development Partners.

Objectives Behind the Name Change

Comrade Ayodele Olawande, the Minister of Youth Development, explained that the rebranding was necessary to better align the program with the aspirations of Nigerian youth. The new name is intended to foster a stronger sense of connection and responsibility among young Nigerians, encouraging them to actively participate in the economic development process.

The core goal of YEIDEP remains unchanged: to provide Nigerian youth with the tools and opportunities they need to start businesses, reduce unemployment, and contribute to the nation’s growth. The program offers a wide range of resources, including training, seed funding, loans, and market access in vital sectors such as agriculture, technology, and renewable energy.

Collaborations and Financial Support

In its effort to provide financial support to youth participants, YEIDEP has partnered with a variety of commercial banks, including:

• Fidelity Bank
• Keystone Bank
• Union Bank
• Lotus Bank
• Access Bank
• UBA (United Bank for Africa)
• First Bank
• Zenith Bank
• Wema Bank
• Sterling Bank
• JAIZ Bank

These partnerships ensure that participants have access to critical financial services, loans, and educational resources, empowering them to pursue their business goals effectively.

12 Million Jobs

​The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched an initiative to create 12 million jobs for youth farmers and food entrepreneurs through this programmer. This collaboration aims to address youth unemployment, poverty, and related issues by empowering young Nigerians through specialized schemes. ​

In a press briefing in Abuja, the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, highlighted that the initiative is designed to provide Nigerian youths with the necessary economic platforms and empowerment opportunities to become job creators. The program seeks to transform youths into change agents and catalysts for nation-building, wealth creation, poverty alleviation, crime reduction, social transformation, and economic development

The initiative will focus on strategic economic engagement areas, including:​

• Youth Farmers’ Cooperative Scheme: Supporting agriculture-based ventures.​
• Tech4Jobs: Harnessing technology for employment opportunities.​
• Waste2Wealth: Turning waste management into profitable enterprises.​
• Arts4Money: Monetizing talents in creative industries.​
• Skills2Job: Upskilling youth to meet labor market demands.​

The program aims to promote job creation and wealth generation by fostering agri-food entrepreneurship, integrating value-chain investments, and leveraging emerging opportunities in technology, entertainment, and renewable energy. The goal is to create 12 million jobs over the program’s lifespan, with 6 million jobs directly linked to value-added sectors like technology, agriculture, and entertainment. ​

Comrade Kennedy Iyere, the coordinator of YEIDEP, expressed appreciation to the Minister for his tireless efforts in promoting initiatives that foster economic development. He assured the Minister of his commitment to effectively implement the initiative, emphasizing its potential to stimulate economic growth, create job opportunities, and enhance overall community progress. ​

This initiative represents a significant step towards addressing youth unemployment and fostering economic development in Nigeria.

YEIDEP Projects

The Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP) includes various projects aimed at empowering Nigerian youth through economic opportunities and reducing the risk of radicalization. These projects focus on critical sectors such as agriculture, technology, renewable energy, and the creative industries. Here are some key projects:

• Youth Farmers’ Cooperative Scheme – Organizes and supports young people in agriculture, from farming to agro-processing, aiming to create millions of new youth farmers and improve food production​. This component addresses food insecurity while generating livelihoods in rural and urban agribusiness ventures.
• Tech4Jobs – Focuses on the technology sector, equipping youths with digital skills and facilitating employment in ICT and innovation-driven jobs​. It leverages Nigeria’s growing tech scene to absorb young talent and create new enterprises.
• Waste2Wealth – Aims to turn waste management and recycling into profitable enterprises for youth​.This green initiative teaches young entrepreneurs to convert waste to usable products or energy, creating jobs that also benefit the environment.
• Arts4Money – Helps youths in the creative and entertainment industries monetize their talents​. It provides support for young artists, musicians, and creators to develop sustainable businesses, tapping into Nigeria’s vibrant arts and culture sector.
• Skills2Job – Provides vocational training and upskilling programs to make youth more employable​. This ensures participants gain practical skills demanded by the labor market (e.g. in construction, manufacturing, services), linking them to job openings or startup opportunities.

In addition to these flagship schemes, YEIDEP includes other complementary programs. For instance, a Food4All Initiative has been mentioned as a strategy to ensure affordable food supply while engaging youth in food production​.

There are also mentorship and entrepreneurship incubation platforms like Mentee2CEO, which pairs inexperienced youth with mentors to help them grow into business owners​.

Even sports and community engagement are part of the mix – a National Unity Cup football tournament is planned to foster youth solidarity and national unity as a social aspect of de-radicalization​ .

This multi-pronged approach indicates that YEIDEP is not a single program but a comprehensive package of interventions addressing different interests and economic sectors, all with the common aim of empowering youth economically and socially.

Objectives

The Youth Economic Intervention and De-Radicalization Programme (YEIDEP) aims to address various critical issues faced by young Nigerians. Its objectives focus on empowering youth and promoting positive social and economic changes across the country. Let’s explore each of the key objectives in detail:

1. Nation-Building

One of the primary goals is to strengthen the nation by empowering the youth. By providing them with the skills, knowledge, and resources needed to succeed, young people can play a significant role in building stronger communities and contributing to national growth.

2. Food Security

Food security is a critical objective, with a focus on engaging youth in agriculture. By offering training and resources, young Nigerians are encouraged to participate in food production, which enhances local food security and reduces reliance on imported food products. This initiative also aims to create job opportunities in rural areas.

3. Self-Employment and Entrepreneurship Revolution

Encouraging self-employment and entrepreneurship is central to the program. By equipping youth with the skills and tools necessary to start their own businesses, it provides them with alternatives to unemployment. This objective helps foster an entrepreneurial spirit, offering training, funding, and resources for young individuals to thrive as entrepreneurs.

4. Unemployment Reduction

A key objective is to reduce youth unemployment by creating job opportunities. Providing youth with the necessary skills and resources to find employment or establish their own businesses directly addresses the high unemployment rate in the country, thus contributing to national economic development.

5. Wealth Generation

Promoting wealth generation is another goal, focusing on providing the youth with the opportunity to create profitable businesses. By offering training and financial support, young people are empowered to generate wealth, which not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the broader economic prosperity of the nation.

6. Poverty Alleviation

Poverty alleviation is a crucial objective, aiming to reduce poverty levels among young Nigerians. By offering opportunities for economic independence through entrepreneurship and skill development, the initiative seeks to lift people out of poverty and create a more self-sufficient population.

7. De-Radicalization and Crime Reduction

A significant objective is to address radicalization and reduce crime. By engaging youth in productive activities and providing alternatives to extremist ideologies, the program works to prevent youth involvement in criminal activities. This contributes to greater social stability and a reduction in violence.

8. National Security

Improving national security is a key focus, with efforts aimed at offering youth positive alternatives to violence and criminality. Through economic empowerment and providing opportunities for constructive engagement, young people can contribute to a more secure environment, addressing the root causes of insecurity in the country.

9. Economic Development

The program contributes to economic development by promoting youth-led businesses. By fostering growth in sectors such as agriculture, technology, and renewable energy, it generates jobs and stimulates economic activity, helping to drive the country’s overall economic progress.

10. Socio-Political Stability

Enhancing socio-political stability is another goal, with a focus on creating a more peaceful and cohesive society. By providing youth with opportunities for personal and professional growth, the initiative encourages them to participate in nation-building, leading to greater social harmony and political stability.

These objectives are designed to address Nigeria’s pressing challenges and provide lasting solutions through youth empowerment, economic development, and social stability.

Partnerships and Funding Sources

YEIDEP is supported by the government, civil society, and the private sector. It was initiated by the Youths Off The Street Initiative (YOTSI) and is implemented through the Federal Ministry of Youth Development. The program has high-level government backing, with support from the Youth Development Ministry and the Nigerian Senate’s Committee on Sports Development. Senator Ned Nwoko played a key role in its establishment.

A coalition of Nigerian banks, including Fidelity Bank, Keystone Bank, Union Bank, Lotus Bank, Access Bank, UBA, First Bank, Zenith Bank, Wema Bank, Sterling Bank, and Jaiz Bank, provides financial services, loans, and specialized accounts for youth beneficiaries. Keystone Bank has introduced a tailored process to help enrollees access credit, aiming to empower 10 million youths in agriculture, technology, and renewable energy. Most funding for youth projects is expected to come from commercial banks, possibly with government support.

On the government side, funding includes federal budget allocations and the planned National Youth Bank, set to provide youth-friendly financial products, mentorship, and investment. This initiative ensures that even those with little collateral can access funding.

YOTSI also contributes through FUND-YES, a platform that pools philanthropic donations, impact investments, and grants to finance youth entrepreneurship. Additionally, international partners are involved in advisory and financial roles.

Overall, YEIDEP’s funding strategy combines government allocations, bank partnerships, and civil society contributions. This multi-stakeholder approach aims to provide accessible financing while ensuring effective oversight to drive youth inclusion and economic empowerment.

Eligibility Requirements

For YEIDEP Registration (previously known as NIYEEDEP), applicants are typically required to meet the following criteria:

• Nigerian Citizenship: Only Nigerian citizens are eligible to apply​
• Age Range: You should be between 18 and 35 years old (the program is youth-focused)​
• National Identity Number (NIN): A valid NIN is required for identity verification during registration​
• Entrepreneurial Interest: Applicants should have an interest in starting or growing a business. The program especially encourages ventures in sectors like agriculture, ICT, fashion, entertainment, sports, renewable energy, and other productive areas​. (Unemployed youths or those seeking to expand an existing small business are welcome to apply​
• Willingness to Participate in Program Activities: As YEIDEP includes training and mentorship, applicants should be prepared to attend required training sessions or workshops if selected.

Note: Under the previous NIYEEDEP scheme, having an account with a specific bank (Lotus Bank) was required for fund disbursement​.

Required Documents

When registering, you will need to provide information and upload documents to support your application. Prepare the following items (in scanned copies where applicable)​

• Valid ID: A government-issued photo identification, such as a National ID card (with NIN), permanent voter’s card, or international passport​. This verifies your identity, age, and citizenship.
• National Identification Number: Your NIN (if not already on your ID card) will be used for verification​. Ensure you have your NIN details ready.
• Bank Verification Number (BVN): Your BVN is needed to facilitate the opening of your YEIDEP partner bank account and for financial transactions​. You will also present this during the bank verification step after registration.
• Passport Photograph: A recent passport-sized photo may be required (especially during the bank account verification stage)​.
• Business Plan or Proposal: A short write-up or document describing your business idea or existing venture. This should outline the venture’s nature, how you plan to use funding, and its viability​. (While the online form will have fields for business information, having a concise proposal ready will help in filling out details or uploading if required.)
• Contact Details: A valid email address and phone number. These will be used for account creation and for communication (you’ll receive confirmations and updates via email/SMS)​.

Tip: Ensure all information and documents are accurate and consistent with your official records. Discrepancies in names or numbers (for example, between your NIN, BVN, and ID) should be resolved before applying. Incomplete or incorrect documentation could delay your application.

YEIDEP Registration Process (Online Application)

Registration is primarily done online through the official portal. The process is user-friendly and can be completed in several steps. Follow these steps to apply:

1. Visit the Official Portal: Open your web browser and go to the YEIDEP registration website: yeidep.org. You can go directly to the registration page at yeidep.org/registration.php​.  

2. Create an Account: On the portal, click the “Register” button to begin. You will be prompted to create an account by providing basic details such as your email address and phone number, and setting a password (which serves as your login code)​. Make sure to use a reachable email and an active phone number, as verification codes or confirmations might be sent. (If you already registered previously under NIYEEDEP, you do not need to create a new account; existing data was migrated to YEIDEP​.)

3. Fill Out the Application Form: Once registered and logged in, fill out the online application form with your personal and demographic details. This will include: your full name, date of birth, gender, state of origin/residence (LGA), and nationality (which should be Nigeria)​. You will also enter your NIN (for identity verification) and possibly your BVN for the bank setup​. Provide your educational or professional background and details about your business or the enterprise you plan to start. There will be sections to select your area of interest (e.g., agriculture, ICT, fashion, etc.) on the portal​, reflecting the sector in which you seek support. Take your time to ensure all information is correct and spelled properly.

3. Upload Required Documents: The application will prompt you to upload scanned copies of supporting documents. Attach the required ID (e.g., National ID or passport) and your business plan/proposal file if required​. Make sure the scanned documents are clear and legible. You may also need to upload your passport photo if requested on the form. (Large files might need to be resized to meet upload size limits – follow any guidelines given on the portal.)

4. Review and Submit: Before final submission, review all the details you entered. Ensure your personal information matches your documents and that all required fields are filled. Double-check that your contact info (email/phone) is correct, as this is how you will receive updates. Once satisfied, click Submit to finalize your application​. After submission, the portal should display a confirmation message or reference number indicating your application was received. It’s wise to note this reference or take a screenshot.

5. Confirmation and Account Setup: After successful submission, YEIDEP will process your registration. You should receive a confirmation via email or SMS that your application is in the system​. Importantly, the program will initiate the creation of a bank account for you with one of the partner banks (if you didn’t provide an existing partner bank account)​. You will get an SMS with your new account number and the bank name once this is set up​. This account is where any financial benefits (loans, grants) will be channeled.

6. Bank Verification (Offline Step): With the account details received via SMS, visit the nearest branch of the assigned partner bank to complete your Know-Your-Customer (KYC) verification. Bring your ID, NIN, BVN, and passport photo to the bank​. Inform them you are a beneficiary who needs to finalize the account opening. The bank will verify your identity (fingerprints, etc., if needed) and activate the account for your use. (This step is mandatory to be able to receive funds later.)

7. Await Further Communication: Once your application is submitted (and your bank account is set up), wait for feedback and further instructions from the YEIDEP program administrators​. Successful applicants are typically notified via email or SMS about next steps​. This may include information on training schedules, orientation, or additional information needed. Be prepared that you might be invited for an interview or to present your business plan as part of the selection process​, although not all applicants will go through an interview. Keep an eye on your email and phone, and also monitor official YEIDEP social media or news updates for announcements​.

8. Offline Registration: Currently, the official registration is done online. There is no widely advertised offline application form. If you do not have reliable internet access, you can seek assistance by visiting the Federal Ministry of Youth Development office or contacting the support line (see contact info below) for guidance. They may direct you to a helpdesk or a partner organization (like YOTSI) that can assist with your registration. Always ensure that any assistance is from official or trusted sources to avoid fraud.

Application Deadlines

As of now, no fixed deadline for YEIDEP registration has been officially announced​. The program is ongoing and aims to enlist millions of youths, so the portal is expected to remain open in the near term.

However, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as soon as possible​. Early registration may improve your chances of timely consideration, and batches of beneficiaries might be processed in phases.

Keep an eye on official announcements in case a deadline or cut-off date is introduced in the future. The first phase of empowerment (disbursement of support) is projected to begin around April to September 2025, aligning with the farming season​.

This suggests that those who register early could be in the first batch of beneficiaries. To ensure you don’t miss out, it’s best to complete your registration promptly rather than waiting.

Contact Information for Assistance

If you need help during the application or have questions about YEIDEP Rgegistration, you can reach out via the official contact channels. Here are the key contact details for support​:

• Office Address: Conference Hall, 2nd Floor, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Federal Secretariat Phase II, Abuja (FCT)​

. – You may visit or send mail here for official inquiries.

• Phone Helpline: +234-906-664-5548​

. – Call this number for guidance on the registration process, technical issues with the portal, or general inquiries.

• Email Support: [email protected]​

. – You can email your questions or describe any problems you encounter; include your name and application reference (if applicable) for easier assistance.

• Official Website: yeidep.org – The website has an FAQ section​ and latest news updates. Check the FAQ page for common questions about the program and the application process.

When contacting by phone or email, be clear about your question or issue. During peak periods, response might be slower due to the high volume of applicants (over two million have registered already​). If you don’t get through at first, try again or use alternative contact methods. Always use the official contacts listed above to avoid scammers – do not trust any unofficial agents claiming to register you for a fee, as YEIDEP registration is free and open to all eligible youth.

FAQ

Is YEIDEP the same as NIYEEDEP?
Yes, It is driven by the Federal Ministry of Youth Development.

What happens to those who registered earlier?
There is no problem. All applicants’ data will be transferred to the new portal or database.

Will the changes in the new portal affect older applicants?
No, the data of previous applicants has been saved, and they will be considered first when empowerment begins.

The new portal asks for interests in farming. Does this affect older applicants?
No, the new system is just easier and faster. Previous applicants may have to be interviewed to categorize their farming interests, but there is no major impact.

The new portal doesn’t direct applicants to specific banks like the old one. What should we do?
The new system will make it easier for applicants to open bank accounts. Data will be sent to the banks, and accounts will be created and sent to applicants by SMS. You will need to visit the bank branch to finish registration by uploading documents like passport, BVN, NIN, etc.

The new portal asks for a password. What is this for?
The password is your personal login code. You can use it anytime to access the portal, in case you forget your code or need any updates.

What happens after completing registration and opening bank accounts?
Once your registration is complete, you will wait for updates. Keep checking for messages or updates through SMS or social media.

Will there be more sources of information from YEIDEP?
Yes, we will soon launch our social media handles where you can follow updates and share important news.

When will the first empowerment start?
The program is expected to begin between April and September, aligning with the new farming season.

What about youths interested in other areas?
YEIDEP focuses on agriculture first, but we will also support youths in ICT, sports, entertainment, fashion, renewable energy, and creative arts.

For more details, call: +2348133977651